DUBAI: Some of the world’s top stars, including Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek, are heading to Dubai for the inaugural World Tennis League set to take place at the Coca Cola Arena from Dec. 19 to 24.
The new competition will feature many of the best men and women players in the world, as well as offer a novel format featuring two-set battles across both singles and mixed doubles matches, with a 10-point tie-breaker set to decide the final outcome if needed.
After play each evening, ticket holders for what is being billed as “The Greatest Show on Court” can attend concerts featuring artists including Dutch DJ superstars Tiësto and Armin Van Buuren.
Rajesh Banga, chairman of the competition, said: “The World Tennis League will be an event like no other. It brings a unique and engaging new format to the game of tennis, offering a spectacular mix of sport and entertainment together. We can’t wait to welcome fans from around the globe for this momentous event that hails a new era for tennis.”
Djokovic heads the men’s field with world No. 1 Swiatek leading the women’s entry list.
The Serbian former world No. 1 has 21 Grand Slam titles including nine Australian Opens, two French Opens, seven Wimbledons and three US Opens to his name, in addition to five ATP Tour Finals titles. Swiatek, a WTA fan favorite, comes to Dubai following her Grand Slam victories at the French Open and US Open in 2022.
“This new event is exciting, there’s no doubt about it,” said Djokovic. I absolutely love playing in Dubai, I’ve had a lot of success there over the years and really enjoy the fans. This is something different, and it’s going to be great being a part of it.”
Swiatek added: “I like it most when tennis connects people and when it’s true entertainment. When it’s combined with a great show and music, it’s even better, so that’s the reason why I’m excited to join this year’s World Tennis League. I’m happy that together with other top players we’ll introduce tennis as fun to new audiences. I can’t wait.”
Joining the men’s field are Alexander Zverev, a rising star who reached a ranking of two in the world this year, and the resurgent Nick Kyrgios, one of the most colorful characters on the ATP Tour. For the women’s field, former world No. 1 Simona Halep and current Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina will also join the lineup.
A player lottery will be held on Nov. 1, where the 16-player lineup will be split into four teams of four players each, and a round robin format for matches across the tournament. The top two teams will then face off in a final day of matches to determine the overall winner of the World Tennis League in Dubai.
The organizers have confirmed that additional award-winning international artists will be announced for the post-match concerts over the coming weeks.
